When traveling to Vietnam, it's important to understand the country's customs, transportation options, and weather patterns beforehand to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some useful tips in Vietnam you might want to know.
CURRENCIES & TIP
The currency in Vietnam is the Dong (abbreviated “VND” or just “d”). There are quite several denominations, the smallest one is 500 dong and biggest one is 500,000 dong. Coin is not widely used. Credit card is increasingly widespread in big cities, but remains limited elsewhere. And though it is possible to pay in USD or EUR, it is easier to bargain in local currency.
Tipping
Although tipping is not a norm in Southeast Asia, it is highly appreciated. The decision of whether to tip or not depends entirely on your satisfaction.
Whom to tip: your guide and driver should come first in the list. Expected amount for a guide is 10 USD / group / day (and if you are very happy). For long trip (10-15 days), you may reduce the amount. The driver is usually tipped half that amount. Tipping is generally not popular in cafes and restaurants, except those run with a cause (eg. helping children with disabilities). Of course, you may tip if your taste tells you so. To conclude tipping is totally up to you, no one will judge you on that.
NATIONAL HOLIDAYS
- National holidays are days when workers get the day off work. Below are national holidays in Vietnam
- New Year Eve: January 1. Period of four days: from the last day of the year before to the third day of the following year.
- Lunar New Year: Mid-January or early February, the same dates as in China.
- Hung Kings Commemoration Day: the tenth day of the third lunar month.
- Reunification Day: April 30
- International Labour Day: May 1
- National Independence Day: September 2
On those occasions an influx of domestic people flow in endless stream to attractions, the cost of accomodation and transport might increase. Make sure to book all your services in advance.
DO AN DON’T
- Vietnamese respect elder people and greet them with a slight bow, a handshake is customary with others
- Vietnamese often take off our shoes to enter a house or apartment and do not come without being invited.
- Vietnamese people rarely open their gifts in front of you, do not be offended by this practice because it is a sign of politeness on their part.